The Year is 2020 and the Global economy has all but caved in on itself. As such many government programs like Child Services and Welfare are nonexistent. In 2015 the Homeless and at Risk were at an all time High and so Government legislation was introduced that effectively states that any person 15 yrs or older found to Be "At Risk" Become property of the state. Some work as free labor for the state, but Others are sold at government Auction to the "Wealthy" lock, stock and barrel. Additionally, it's not unusual for Teens to be given a "Companion" when they come of age on their 18th birthday.